The most beautiful nature reserves in North Brabant
The versatile province of Noord-Brabant is bursting with beautiful nature reserves. Prepare yourself for surprises where one landscape is even more impressive than the other. Whether you like water-rich areas, vast heathlands or mysterious forests, Noord-Brabant has it all. So grab that backpack from the closet and put on your walking shoes, because the Brabant nature is waiting for you! In this blog you will discover the most beautiful nature reserves in Noord-Brabant.
Biesbosch National Park
National Park de Biesbosch is a dynamic and water-rich area, which also makes it the largest freshwater tidal area in Europe. A unique area of its kind! De Biesbosch is a maze of rivers, islands and marshes. Rent a canoe and paddle through the narrow creeks to spot beavers and countless water birds up close. You can also rent a boat, go on one of the whisper boats for a tour or just walk on your feet over the liniepad.
The most popular resident of the Biesbosch is the beaver. There is a good chance that you will encounter it during your walk! You may also have a chance to spot foxes, deer, pine martens, hares and the Northern Vole.
Be sure to visit the Biesbosch Museum to learn more about the origins of this water-rich area.
The Loonse and Drunense Dunes
The Loonse en Drunense Duinen , also known as the Sahara of Brabant, is a national park located between Tilburg and Den Bosch. This nature reserve is the largest sand plain in Western Europe! It is a landscape full of endless sand dunes, surrounded by dense pine forests, water features and beautiful purple heather. A flock of sheep roams this heath. Did you know that the sheep ensure that the heath is naturally maintained?
The Loonse and Drunense Dunes make for a perfect day for mountain biking or a relaxing walk at sunset, as the shadows slowly dance across the dunes. There are plenty of fun hiking and biking trails to follow!
Furthermore, you will find several restaurants and catering establishments in the national park where you can relax while cycling or walking.
The Green Forest
The Groene Woud , located between Eindhoven, Tilburg and 's-Hertogenbosch, is a patchwork of forests, marshes and traditional farm landscapes. This Green treasure trove offers a fantastic place for long walks, where you can just spot a deer and hear the birds sing.
Each season the forest takes on a different colour palette, from fresh spring green to the rich gold tones of autumn.
Whether you want to get lost in the dense forests, picnic on the edge of a meadow or get some fresh air along winding paths, Het Groene Woud has it all.
Photo: Staatsbosbeheer
Nature border park De Groote Heide
Did you know that De Groote Heide consists of no less than 6000 hectares of nature reserve? The heath is a vast nature reserve that is located between Eindhoven and the Belgian border. A unique piece of nature with varied landscapes that stretches across two countries.
The area is dotted with heathland, forests, fields and sand drifts. Ideal for both quiet walks and active bike rides. De Groote Heide is also a breeding ground for many bird species and offers beautiful opportunities for nature photography!
The park has several entrance gates, which offer themselves as a good starting point for a bike or walking tour. From these starting points you will be at De Achelse Kluis in no time, a beautiful monastery in the middle of the nature reserve. Here you can enjoy the peace and quiet with a coffee or beer.
The Mastbos in Breda
The Mastbos is one of the oldest and most beloved forests in the Netherlands. Nature and history go hand in hand here! The Mastbos is also called the backyard of Breda, because this ancient coniferous forest was planted in the 16th century by Hendrik van Nassau.
The area was originally intended as a hunting ground for the nobility and also provided wood for shipbuilding. Today, the Mastbos is a popular place for hikers, cyclists and those seeking peace and quiet. Whether you come to enjoy the silence, want to take an active bike ride or want to discover the rich flora and fauna, the Mastbos offers something for everyone.
Let yourself be carried away by the green heart of Brabant and experience the history of the forest, where the traces of Hendrik van Nassau can still be felt!
Photo: VisitBrabant
The Oisterwijk Forests and Fens
The Oisterwijkse Bossen en Vennen are a hidden gem for anyone who is not from Brabant. A visit to this nature reserve promises to be a picturesque experience. Walk along the water features surrounded by ancient forests. The fens, which reflect the sky like mirrors, offer a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
During your walk you will come across various fens and hidden heathlands. Take a break at one of the benches and enjoy the view! The Oisterwijkse Bossen en Vennen are a popular place for morning joggers and bird lovers.
Photo: VisitBrabant
